What Causes Mold In Crawl Space? And What To Do About It

Should I Worry About Mold In Crawl Space?

Mold in crawl space can pose a significant threat not only to the structural integrity of your home but also to your health. 

Crawl space mold is a cause for concern due to its potential health impacts and structural consequences. Understanding the dangers and identifying the type of mold you're dealing with is crucial for swift and effective action.

Can You Get Sick From Mold Under The House?

Exposure to mold can lead to various health issues, symptoms may include a stuffy nose, wheezing, red or itchy eyes, and skin irritation. Understanding these health effects emphasizes the importance of addressing mold problems promptly.

How To Prevent Mold In Crawl Space?

Prevention is key. Keeping the crawl space well-ventilated, dry, and addressing potential moisture sources is essential. Proper insulation, sealing pipes, and maintaining a functional ventilation system are proactive measures to curb mold growth.

Crawl space insulation is one of the best tools to use for prevention

A humid crawl space provides an ideal environment for mold growth. Maintaining humidity levels below 50% with the help of fans or dehumidifiers is essential in preventing condensation and subsequent mold in crawl space.

How Do I Get Rid Of Mold In My Crawl Space?

While household remedies like vinegar may have some antibacterial properties, they fall short when dealing with crawl space mold. The most reliable solution is to engage professional mold removal services, such as Green Attic crawl space encapsulation to ensure thorough eradication and prevention of recurrence.

Crawl Space Encapsulation The Best Solution

In addition to addressing existing mold issues, Green Attic provides a holistic approach to safeguarding your home through professional crawl space encapsulation services. It is an important step in preventing moisture-related problems and enhancing the environment of your home.

What Causes Mold In Crawl Space?

Mold in crawl spaces often stems from dampness, attributed to water damage, flooding, plumbing leaks, poor ventilation, drainage issues, and foundation cracks. Identifying and addressing the source of contamination is paramount for successful mold removal.

Basement Cracks And Flooding

Crawl spaces are susceptible to flooding during heavy rain, potentially leading to immediate mold growth. Investigating basement cracks and ensuring proper drainage, sump pump functionality, and sealed windows are crucial steps in preventing mold.

Tips To Remove Mold In Crawl Space

Once the source has been identified and fixed, it’s time to treat the actual mold. Keep in mind that these are not the same processes that professionals would use.

Vinegar: One of the most popular house cleaning tips for removing mold is to use vinegar since it kills many bacteria, including molds. Just mix vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio in a spray bottle. Spray all over the affected crawl space walls or floor. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub the area. Rinse with water afterward.

Baking Soda: You can spread baking soda on your floor or furniture, let it sit there overnight, and then clean everything with water first thing in the morning. 

Borax: Borax is another compound that works great against mold in crawl space without leaving any traces behind. But keep in mind that this substance can be toxic, so use it in places where you won’t breathe it in or are not planning to eat anything. 

Whenever you are near suspected mold, it is important to protect yourself by wearing proper PPE. That includes goggles/eye protection, gloves, and N-95 masks.

Crawl Space Encapsulation Process

Crawl space encapsulation begins with the installation of materials designed to prevent crawl space mold, mildew, and rodent issues. The moisture barrier establishes a durable, finished space suitable for storage and climate control. 

For optimal insulation, we employ spray foam insulation around seams and the box sill. When the floor is concrete, a vapor barrier may not be necessary.

Call Green Attic Crawl Space Insulation Chicago

Understanding the risks associated with mold in crawl spaces and implementing proactive measures can safeguard both your home and health. 

Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals such as Green Attic Crawl Space Insulation Chicago for thorough mold removal, ensuring a safe and mold-free living environment.

If the current ventilation system doesn’t work that well, consider installing a new one. Additionally, make sure to check with Green Attic about setting up a new HVAC.

Our crawl space encapsulation service aims to prevent moisture movement from the crawl space to the house and retain heat on the floors above. By installing a moisture barrier liner, we create a clean, dry, and neutral space.